Picture a small-town dreamer spinning tales of heart-pounding romance and high-stakes action—meet Cindy Gerard! Hailing from a tiny Iowa town, this New York Times bestselling author transformed from a Human Services trainer into a romantic suspense powerhouse. With her wildly popular Black Ops, Inc. series, Gerard has thrilled readers worldwide, blending steamy passion with edge-of-your-seat adventure.
Gerard’s knack for crafting alpha heroes and fearless heroines has earned her a loyal following, multiple awards, and a spot among romance royalty. Let’s dive into her journey, from her humble roots to her gripping novels that keep fans up all night!
The Making of Cindy Gerard
Born in a close-knit Iowa town of just 750 people, Cindy Gerard grew up with a love for storytelling. Before she became a literary star, she worked as a trainer in Human Services, honing her knack for understanding people—a skill that shines in her richly drawn characters. Married to her cowboy husband, Tom, and surrounded by horses and dogs, Gerard’s Midwest roots ground her vibrant tales. Her leap into writing began with category romances for Bantam’s Loveswept and Silhouette Desire, but her heart soon called for the adrenaline of romantic suspense.
Gerard’s early novels, like Maverick (1991), showcased her flair for emotional depth and sizzling chemistry. Encouraged by her passion for reading and a desire to tell bigger stories, she transitioned to single-title suspense, launching her career into the stratosphere with series like The Bodyguards and Black Ops, Inc.
Cindy Gerard’s Unforgettable Stories
Cindy Gerard’s novels are a masterclass in romantic suspense, blending pulse-pounding action with heartfelt romance. Her Black Ops, Inc. series, starting with Show No Mercy (2008), follows a covert paramilitary team tackling dangerous missions. In this gripping tale, journalist Jenna McMillan is kidnapped by terrorists, only to be rescued by rugged warrior Gabriel Jones. The book’s mix of thrills, steamy tension, and vivid settings hooked readers instantly.
Take No Prisoners (2008) keeps the adrenaline pumping as blackjack dealer Abbie Hughes teams up with ex-Black Ops operative Sam Lang to rescue her missing brother. Gerard’s knack for cliffhangers and electric love scenes makes this a fan favorite. Later, Feel the Heat (2009) won the 2009 Romantic Intrigue Award from Romantic Times, showcasing Defense Intelligence officer B.J. Chase and operative Rafael in a conspiracy-fueled adventure. Her One-Eyed Jacks series, starting with Killing Time (2013), explores rogue operatives with raw intensity, proving Gerard’s versatility.
Gerard’s style is cinematic, with strong, relatable heroines and alpha heroes who are “100 percent raw, dangerous, and undeniably sexy,” as praised by Sherrilyn Kenyon. Her themes of loyalty, redemption, and love under pressure resonate deeply, set against exotic locales like Buenos Aires and sultry jungles.
Why Cindy Gerard Matters
Cindy Gerard’s impact on romantic suspense is undeniable. Her Black Ops, Inc. series has consistently hit the New York Times Bestseller list, earning her a RITA Award for Best Romantic Suspense and a National Reader’s Choice Award. With over 50 titles, her stories have inspired readers to crave strong heroines and thrilling plots. Gerard’s ability to balance action with emotional depth has influenced countless authors in the genre.
Beyond her books, Gerard’s advocacy for animal rights and her down-to-earth charm—living with her husband, horses, and dogs Ellie and Boomer—make her a beloved figure. Her tales of courage and connection continue to captivate, proving romance can be both heart-racing and heartfelt.
- Birthplace: Iowa, USA
- Key Works: Show No Mercy, Take No Prisoners, Feel the Heat, Killing Time
- Awards: RITA Award for Best Romantic Suspense, National Reader’s Choice Award, 2009 Romantic Intrigue Award
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag Show No Mercy and dive into Cindy Gerard’s world of romance and danger!